GRADE REPORTING MANUAL SECONDARY 6-12 FOR THE DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD OF COLLIER COUNTY

Transcription

1 GRADE REPORTING MANUAL SECONDARY 6-12 FOR THE DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD OF COLLIER COUNTY Dr. Kamela Patton Superintendent of Schools

2 Dr. Kamela Patton Superintendent of Schools THE DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD OF COLLIER COUNTY Kathleen Curatolo, Chair Julie Sprague, Vice-Chair Erika Donalds, Member Kelly Lichter, Member Roy Terry, Member This report has been prepared by The District School Board of Collier County. Additional copies, if available, may be obtained by writing: The District School Board of Collier County Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Administrative Center Student Services 5775 Osceola Trail Naples, Florida Report Number: Coordinated by: Leslie Ricciardelli Beth Coryell Christopher Smith Stephen McFadden VISION STATEMENT All students will complete school prepared for ongoing learning as well as community and global responsibilities. The District School Board of Collier County does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in the provision of educational opportunities or employment opportunities and benefits. The District School Board does not discriminate on the basis of sex or disability in the education programs and activities that it operates, pursuant to the requirements of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, respectively. The right not to be discriminated against extends to both employees and students of the District and shall include equal access to designated youth organizations in conformity with the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act. The following personnel should be contacted for inquires about their rights or to learn how to file a complaint regarding discrimination. Employees: Educational Equity Act, Title IX, Section 504 (Rehabilitation Act) or the Americans with Disabilities Act, contact Debbie Terry, Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources and Deputy Title IX Coordinator for Employees, (239) , The District School Board of Collier County, 5775 Osceola Trail, Naples, Florida Students: Educational Equity Act, Title IX, or the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, contact Stephen McFadden, Coordinator, School Counseling K-8, and Deputy Title IX Coordinator for Students, (239) , The District School Board of Collier County, 5775 Osceola Trial, Naples, Florida Section 504 (Rehabilitation Act) and the Americans with Disabilities Act, contact Dr. L. Van Hylemon, Coordinator, Psychological Services, (239) , The District School Board of Collier County, 5775 Osceola Trail, Naples, Florida,

3 GRADE REPORTING MANUAL Secondary 6-12 Peggy Aune, Ed.D. Assistant Superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction Leslie Ricciardelli Executive Director, Secondary Programs Beth Coryell Director, Secondary Programs Christopher Smith Coordinator, School Counseling 9-12 Stephen McFadden Coordinator, School Counseling K-8

4 TABLE OF CONTENTS Philosophy 5 General Information 6 Middle School Reporting 9 High School Reporting 19 Appendix: A. Grade Discrepancy Report 31 B. Grade Change Forms 32 C. Middle School Physical Education Grading Guidelines 34 D. Middle School Grading Guidelines in Art 35 E. Middle School Grading Guidelines in Music 36 4

5 PHILOSOPHY We believe that students have a right to receive grades that represent an accurate evaluation of achievement and that thoughtful, informed assessment promotes learning. We believe that grades: reflect progress and mastery in meeting state-wide standards, district standards and mastery of approved course objectives; are earned, not given; are based on a sufficient amount of graded work; are based on a logical and justifiable grading process; are derived from varied types of assessments; and are weighted and balanced. We believe that grades must provide clear, useful, and relevant information to students, parents, and the community. Grades should enable students and parents to track academic progress. A close working relationship between home and school is essential. 5

6 GENERAL INFORMATION 6-12 Information on grade reports can include academic progress, attendance, conduct, and effort. Grade reports establish sound home-school communication and cooperation. Academic progress reporting consists of identifying a student s instructional level in the basic skills areas in elementary schools or the various titles and levels of middle and high school courses, providing a judgment as to the quality and quantity of academic progress, and providing a judgment as to the extent to which the student is utilizing his/her abilities. Academic progress will be dealt with in detail in each of the subsections of this publication. A transfer student s earned grades from his/her previous school shall be verified prior to entering the grades on the student s academic history. Transfer grades will be calculated just as they would if earned at a Collier County school. The quality point scale found in the appendix will be used to determine final grades. Regular attendance is critical to student progress. State law requires regular attendance on the part of all students, ages Accurate records and subsequent reports to parents regarding attendance not only are of substantial benefit to the child and his/her parents, but also serve to improve the total atmosphere of the school. The conduct comments and codes may be reported on middle and high school report cards. This area includes respect for the rights and feelings of others, respect for property, and adherence to the rules of the classroom and the school. Home-school communication should accomplish accurate exchange of information and build cooperative relationships to benefit the child. Such cooperative relationships are facilitated by a positive attitude on the part of all parties concerned. The grade report is one among several school-to-home communication channels. Others include notes, phone calls, s, interim progress reports and electronic grade book, etc. Teachers are encouraged to utilize all of these channels. In communicating with parents, by whatever means, one should be sure to represent the facts accurately and within a positive and courteous framework. Communication of this type is far more likely to result in benefit to students, teachers, and parents. The comment section of the grade report is an excellent opportunity for positive communication. Teachers are encouraged to utilize this opportunity as often as possible. Grade Equity and Uniformity Grades should be a reflection of the student s mastery of the standards and benchmarks of the course as identified in the state-wide standards. Teachers use both formative and summative assessments throughout each quarter. Certain formative assessments may be minimal practice assessments (e.g., academic practice, participation). It is important that the teacher grades so that appropriate weight is given for the type and importance of the assessment. Formative assessments could be, but 6

7 are not limited to: weekly quizzes, minor projects, minor presentations, and class work activities. Summative assessments could be, but are not limited to: major tests, projects, and presentations. Grades are based on multiple opportunities for students to demonstrate achievement of standards. Teachers should adhere to a minimum expectation of one grade each week per subject area/course or approximately nine grades per grading period. Recording more grades may provide a more accurate picture of a student s progress during the grading period. Consistency in Grading For the purposes of maintaining the electronic grade book, grades should be entered weekly. Weighting of categories should be thoughtfully considered. Consistency in grading categories for schools and departments should be prioritized. It is important to note that in order to successfully develop a major project a teacher might have to take the students through a series of formative assessments on the parts of the project. Thus, the student would receive grades on the steps plus the overall project. A grading rubric is highly recommended for projects. Refer to CCPS Board Policy 2330 and Administrative Procedure 2330 for specific information regarding homework. Effort and conduct grades are not to be factored into the academic grade; there is a separate area for addressing these evaluations.. Each teacher s evaluation process should be designed so as to: reflect each student s individual progress; relate directly to the body of knowledge or skills taught; include numerous indicators of student progress rather than relying on one or two; allow for review, by parents or others, of class work or test results upon which the evaluation is based; and allow for another individual to understand the methods of evaluation and the factors taken into consideration in arriving at a conclusion. It is not required that teachers use a percentage system in grading student work and in determining test, examination or individual marking period grades. When a percentage system is used in grades 6-12, the following scale is to be applied: A % Outstanding Progress B 80-89% Above Average Progress C 70-79% Average Progress D 60-69% Lowest Acceptable Progress F 0-59% Failure 7

8 In calculating semester or year-end grades in grades 9-12, the point systems appearing in the appendices are to be used. Teachers may deviate from the point system only when extenuating circumstances exist. Such deviations must be documented by the teacher on a grade discrepancy report which must be approved by the principal. Modification of grade reporting symbols, through the use of pluses (+) or minuses (-), is not a part of the standard grade reporting system. Such modifications are not to be made. No classes or courses at the middle or high school level are to be Pass/Fail courses except those so designated on a district-wide basis. A student has one day for each day of absence to complete make up work. (Note: This may not apply to long term projects.) Work not made up in the time specified may receive a grade of F. Interim Progress Reports are issued to every student each grading period. Comments Teachers are encouraged to make comments as often as possible. Middle school comment areas are entered as O, S, N or U; high schools use the comment codes as shown on page 11. Conferences A conference may be requested by the teacher. Middle school teachers indicate a Y for conference requested in the electronic grade book. High school teachers select comment code G (16). 8

9 MIDDLE SCHOOL REPORTING Evaluation of Academic Achievement In the basic skills areas of English Language Arts and Mathematics, three levels of courses are provided in the middle schools. Students are assigned to these levels based on factors including, but not limited to, assessment data. Students are evaluated based on their mastery of skills, which includes learning the concepts and acquiring the knowledge required by the course in which they are enrolled. Appropriate assignment to the courses should accomplish the matching of course requirements and ability levels in order for the students to achieve the highest level of success. Symbols used in the evaluation of academic achievement are as follows: A 90% - 100% Outstanding Progress B 80% - 89% Above Average Progress C 70% - 79% Average Progress D 60% - 69% Lowest Acceptable Progress F 0% - 59% Failure I Incomplete Instructional Level When courses are conducted at other than regular instructional levels, those levels are identified by the titles of the courses. Parents are alerted to the student s instructional level performance as indicated on the grade report using the codes shown below. Course Levels 1 = Working on alternate standards / access skills (applicable to MC1, MC2, MC3) 2 = Working on standards below assigned grade level (e.g., intensive courses) 3 = Working on standards at assigned grade level 4 = Working on standards above assigned grade level (e.g., advanced, high school courses) Effort/Conduct Effort and conduct evaluations are provided in all classes each marking period in addition to achievement evaluation. The effort evaluation is a judgment based on observation and review of present and past information available to the teacher as to the extent to which the student is utilizing his/her abilities. The question here is: Is the pupil doing the best he/she can, given his/her abilities? Conduct evaluation is a judgment based on observation of the student s behavior in school. The conduct evaluation is based on the student s respect for the rights of others and feelings of persons, respect for property, and adherence to the rules of the classroom and school. Symbols used for the following conduct/effort clusters are: O = outstanding, S = satisfactory, N = needs improvement, U = unsatisfactory 9

10 Comments: I Completes work / class participation II Follows directions / uses time wisely III Courteous / respects others IV General conduct Electronic Grade Books Electronic grade books are an effective way for teachers to prepare grades. The teacher should be aware of the number of points given for a quarter and assign weight to categories that are fair and equitable. Rubrics and Scoring Guides A rubric is an authentic assessment tool that lists the criteria for a piece of work and lets the student know how his/her work will be evaluated. Rubrics should be written and shared with students prior to or alongside the introduction of the assigned project. Rubrics can be used for both formative and summative assessment purposes. High School Credit Courses Middle School students in grade eight may take and earn high school credit in the following courses as available on the middle school campuses or by means of virtual courses: Algebra I; Algebra I Honors; Geometry; Geometry Honors; any first or second year foreign language course; Introduction to Information Technology; Keyboarding and Business Skills; Computer and Business Skills; Computing for College and Careers; and Culinary Arts. These high school courses are indicated in the Course Code Directory for high school credit. Students in grade eight may take Health Opportunities through Physical Education (HOPE). (Note: Courses earning high school credit will be reflected on the student s permanent high school transcript.) Such credit is applicable to meeting state scholarship requirements in all cases permitted by law. Intensive Math and Reading courses taken as part of Alternative School programs shall also earn high school credit. Middle school students in grade six and seven may also take the courses identified, with the exception of HOPE, as indicated in the Student Progression Plan. FULL YEAR GRADE CALCULATION Courses for high school credit A student enrolled in a full-year course for high school credit shall receive a full credit if the student successfully completes the class, provided that such additional requirements specified in district school board policies, such as class attendance, homework, participation, and other indicators of performance, are successfully completed by the student. (F.S ) Courses with no state End-of-Course (EOC) exam A District local or teacher-made final assessment will be administered in all courses. District or teacher-made final assessments will account for 5% for 6 th grade and 10% of the student s final grade in 7 th /8 th grades. Each quarter is to be given 22.5% weighting for 6 th grade and 20% weighting for 7 th /8 th grades in final course grades. 10

11 Courses with state End-of-Course (EOC) exam A District local or teacher-made mid-term assessment or project will be given which will count 10% of the student s final grade. The state EOC will account for 30% of the final grade. Each quarter is to be given 15% weighting in final course grades. Total quality points for the course are applied to the following scale in determining the final course grade. MIDDLE SCHOOL GRADING CALCULATIONS Grade Level GP1 GP2 Mid-term GP3 GP4 Final % 22.5% 5% 22.5% 22.5% 5% 7 20% 20% 10% 20% 20% 10% 8 20% 20% 10% 20% 20% 10% 6/7/8 Courses with EOC 15% 15% 10% 15% 15% 30% In order for a student to receive a final passing grade for the academic year in a course, at least one passing grade ( D or higher) needs to be earned in second semester. Exam Grade Reporting for Teachers EOC Courses: All state End-of-Course (EOC) exam results will be automatically loaded to the grade reporting system by the District office and will not appear in the electronic grade book. For students taking the EOC, teachers will not enter a grade in the final exam category. Any grades for culminating teacher-made projects or assessments will be entered manually as an assignment by the teacher for inclusion in fourth quarter grades. Non-EOC Courses A District local assessment or teacher-created assessment or project will need to be manually entered in the electronic grade book. Re-Taking of a state End-of-Course (EOC) exam for Grade Improvement State and District grade forgiveness policies allow for middle school students, who are taking high school courses, to replace final grades of C, D, or F. A student retaking the course for grade forgiveness purposes will also retake the state EOC exam; the higher of the two scores will be used for grade calculation. If a middle school student received a final grade of C, D, or F in a course requiring a state EOC exam the student could retake the state EOC exam, to have the final grade recalculated. District Local Assessments District local assessments, administered in applicable courses, during quarter I will account for 5% of the respective quarter. District local assessments, administered in applicable courses, during quarter II and IV will account for the mid-term and final exam, respectively. Return to to Table of of Contents 11

12 Middle School Homework General Guidelines Per Policy 2330, it is the philosophy of the School Board that homework is an integral part of a successful educational experience. Not only does homework reinforce learning through the practice, application, integration, and/or extension of knowledge and skills, but it also serves to develop the study skills and sense of responsibility that will enable students to become independent learners. (F.S ) The following procedures have been developed to assist principals in working with staff to establish appropriate homework assignments: A. All homework assignments should have a specific purpose related to the learning objectives of a program or course. B. Homework assignments should be appropriate to the grade level and the abilities of the students involved. C. Homework assignments should allow for practice and/or preparation. D. Homework as punishment is inappropriate. E. The purpose of homework, in terms of the goals of a program, should be clear to the student when assigned. F. If homework is assigned it should be commented on. G. The time limits for the completion of homework should: 1. be reasonable and consistent with the nature of the assignments given; 2. provide for interim appraisal of progress where assignments involve blocks of time; 3. be consistent with the current Board adopted Code of Student Conduct for policies regarding make-up of missed homework; and 4. not exceed guidelines as follows: a. Grade 6: sixty (60) minutes total b. Grade 7: seventy-five (75) minutes total c. Grade 8: ninety (90) minutes total H. In grades 6-8, homework should not be weighted more than 10 percent (10%) of a student s quarter grade. (This does not apply to HS courses taken in MS.) 12

13 Middle School Homework Teachers Guidelines Tips and Strategies for Teachers Does not apply to high school credit courses taken at middle school Q1: How much homework is appropriate? Teachers must remember that they may not be the only teacher assigning homework. Teachers may want to work with their teams or grade levels (if possible) in designing a calendar (possibly online or in a common planning area) to eliminate overburdening the students unnecessarily. Research suggests that frequent, shorter assignments are better than fewer, longer assignments. Students enrolled in music/band classes may have practice assignments which would cause the total homework time to exceed the recommended averages. Q2: What constitutes homework? Teachers should design quality homework tasks that are connected to classroom learning. The purpose of the homework should be clearly communicated to the student. Practice Student should be able to do the work independently because the skill has already been taught and modeled in the classroom. Preparation Examples include reading the next chapter, looking up new vocabulary words for the next book/chapter/unit of study. These assignments introduce new concepts that will then be discussed and expanded on in class. Extension and Integration Homework This work encourages higher order thinking as students apply established skills to new situations. In some cases, this could be cross-curricular. These assignments, that include a review of materials from previous assignments along with a preview of new concepts and procedures, better facilitate student learning. Review/ Study homework Be sure to include studying and reviewing as part of the allotted homework time. Help students to study more effectively with study guides and practices for review before the test/ quiz. Homework should not include toxic homework practices. Some examples are: large volumes of repetitive problems (e.g., 60 math problems); introducing new concepts with high risk of failure (e.g., complex science assignment about a completely new concept which was never presented); and unrealistic and inappropriate workload (e.g., 30 vocabulary words to learn at once). 13

14 Q3: How can homework be differentiated to meet the needs of all learners? Examples include: Tic-tac-toe boards and completing projects; RAFTs; different articles at different reading levels on same/similar subject; different note-taking strategies; vocabulary maps or illustrated dictionaries; English Language Arts: grammar activities; independent, student-selected reading and follow up activities for class (book talks/reviews, art projects, etc.); discussion forums on an online forum (e.g., Angel, Edmodo); writing assignments tailored to student interests or on a variety of topics Q4: How will homework match the rigor of the course? For all courses, the depth and difficulty of the assignments will match the rigor of the course. Therefore, advanced courses may have more in-depth, complex assignments. This does not necessarily translate into more problems or longer completion times. Q5: Should homework require assistance from home? In general, students should be able to complete homework assignments without assistance. Q6: Should extra credit be given for homework? Extra credit should only be offered if available to all students. This may include a bonus question on a test or quiz, but generally should not involve homework. Q7: Should teachers accept late homework? Deadlines should be flexible, depending on the assignment s purpose. Teachers should plan and assign homework ahead of time as often as possible. If an assignment is meaningful and necessary in order for a student to achieve mastery, then the important thing is that the work gets done, even if it is late. Consistency is great, but homework is not for the purpose of grading behavior (e.g., responsibility, time management). In most situations, the consequence for not completing the work should be to complete the work. Late work should be accepted within reason in some instances, this may not be possible. For example, the homework is reviewed in class the next day. Flexible deadlines, such as allowing students to turn in homework during a three day window, are encouraged. Late policies can be set by individual teams or grade levels at each school. Examples of policies include giving students up to three days to turn in an assignment each day late will drop one point on the homework rubric. After 4 days, students will receive an M in the electronic grade book. 14

15 Q8: Do teachers have to give homework? Teachers have flexibility since homework counts for up to 10% of the grade. Therefore, 0 5% may be appropriate for some classes. Q9: Is there a minimum number of assignments necessary to count 10% of the grade? The homework weight should reflect the work. For example, one homework assignment should not be weighted for 10% of a grade. Teachers should plan the weight they assign the homework category in the electronic grade book on how many homework assignments they may assign during the quarter. A homework category that is worth 10% of the grade should have more than one or two assignments. Q10: Who will monitor? Principals and Assistant Principals should monitor teachers homework practices as necessary. Q11: What are the consequences if homework is not complete? Teachers and schools should make every effort possible to collect missing assignments. The consequence for not completing homework should be to complete the homework, when appropriate. Interventions, afterschool programs, and lunch detentions are examples of strategies that may be used to assist students in completing their homework. Q12: Are zeros permitted for homework? If an assignment is missing, teachers should put an M in the electronic grade book to reflect the missing assignment (rather than a zero to represent that nothing is right ). An M is calculated by the grade book as a zero in the total grade. Where appropriate, effort should be made to have students complete the missing work in a timely manner. Q13: What role does feedback play? All assignments should be given some type of feedback. This may vary depending on the assignment and should include at least one of the following: grades with comments, reviews, reflections, discussions (may include directed peer-review). 15

16 Q14: How is homework assessed? The grading of homework will vary depending on the subject area and assignment. Not all assignments must be graded. The use of rubrics which are clearly defined and understood by students may help students self-assess and take responsibility for their work. (Note: A sample rubric is provided at the end of this document.) Q15: Can I give long-term projects as homework? Long-term projects do have a role in the homework time allotted for each class. Often, however, long-term assignments are not graded as homework when time is allotted in class for work on the project. This may include, but not be limited to: English Language Arts projects, Pre-Laureate, Science Fair, Geography/ History projects, and Math projects. Projects should have established check-points along the way. Q16: How can I help with organization of homework time? Teams or grade levels should keep calendars in an agreed upon area (possibly online or in a common planning area) and discuss the amount of homework being assigned for each subject area. Students should not be overburdened with large assignments in multiple classes. Team or grade level planning should also include scheduling of tests, so that a student studying for multiple tests on the same day does not become a problem. Again, the recommended average is 10 minutes per grade level each night. A 6th-grade student should expect an average of 60 minutes total for all homework each night. Utilize planners: teachers should allot time in class for students to fill out homework assignments in planners. 16

17 Sample Homework Rubric: Name: Teacher: Date: Period: Value Timeliness Turned in 3 days late. Turned in 2 days late. Turned in 1 day late. Turned in on time. Directions Did not follow directions Followed some of the directions Followed most of the directions Followed all directions (including proper heading, correct page number, length of assignment, etc.) Sentence structure Did not write in complete sentences Some of the assignment was done using complete sentences. Most of the assignment was done using complete sentences. All of the assignment was done using complete sentences. Completion Assignment < 50% completed Assignment about 50% completed Assignment about 75% completed Assignment 100% completed Quality Quality needs improvement Quality is good Quality is very good! Quality is EXCELLENT! Total Score: out of 20 Note to students: As you do your homework think about the goal you have set for yourself. What grade do you WANT to get? How do you make that happen? Any homework assignment more than three days late will receive a zero and will be entered in the electronic grade book as an M for missing. ADDITIONAL TEACHER FEEDBACK: 17

18 Collier County Public Schools CONDUCT/BEHAVIOR RUBRIC O,S N U Outstanding, Satisfactory Needs Improvement Unsatisfactory On time to class Brings all supplies: pencil, paper, reading, text book, completed assignment, student planner Cooperative Helpful to peers Respectful to adults and peers Considerate of property belonging to others 2 documented parent contacts (via , phone, conference, home visit, etc.) or 2 detentions, or 1 regarding student behavior Missing supplies 3-6 times in a grading period 3 tardies to class in one grading period 3 or more documented parent contacts, or 3 or more detentions, or a combination of these that adds up to 3 or more detentions 1 or more office referrals for class disruption or insubordination Missing supplies 7 or more times in a grading period 4 or more tardies to class in one grading period An O will be assigned for excellence in all areas beyond that which is expected, otherwise an S will be assigned on the report card. An N will be assigned for one or more of any of the above infractions incurred in the same nine week grading period. A U will be assigned for one or more of any of the above infractions incurred in the same nine week grading period. 18

19 HIGH SCHOOL REPORTING Evaluation of Academic Achievement The evaluation of high school students should be based upon their mastery of the skills, concepts, and knowledge specified by the state standards and state course objectives. A student s progress in the mastery of curriculum must be the grading criteria for high school course work. Grades must NOT be adjusted according to the individual ability level of a student. Appropriate course selection ensures that all students can be successful in their high school course work. Students with disabilities enrolled in basic education classes with regular education course numbers are held to the same standards as students without disabilities. Accommodations specified by the IEP are to facilitate a student s successful participation in the general education curriculum, not modify course objectives and standards. As with all students enrolled in general education courses, grades for students with disabilities should be consistent with their mastery of course objectives. Instructional Level When courses are conducted at other than regular instructional levels, those levels are identified by the titles of the courses. Parents are alerted to the instructional level of courses through the publication The School Board of Collier County High School Course Information Booklet. This publication is published annually and is available upon request or on the district website. Explanations regarding instructional level are as follows: Level 2 Courses These courses are designated in the state Course Code Directory as Level 2 courses. Level 3 Courses These courses are designated in the state Course Code Directory as Level 3 courses. Level 3 Advanced Placement (AP), Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE), and Dual Enrollment Courses University-level learning opportunities are provided in the areas of English Language Arts, mathematics, science, social studies, foreign language, computer science, and fine arts for exceptionally high-achieving and self-motivated students who meet specific placement criteria. These courses are designated in the state Course Code Directory as Level 3 courses. 19

20 Symbols Used in the Reporting of Academic Achievement Letter Grade Percentage Equivalents A Outstanding Progress % B Above Average Progress 80-89% C Average Progress 70-79% D Lowest Acceptable Progress 60-69% F Failure 0-59% N No credit P Passing WF Withdrawn-Failing WP Withdrawn-Passing Effort and Conduct Comment Codes Comment codes, as defined on the reverse side of the report card, should be used to give indications of both effort and conduct. Teachers are encouraged to utilize these codes. The following comment codes and their explanations are printed on report cards. Student: 1. has positive and pleasant attitude. 2. is punctual, responsible and shows initiative. 3. uses class time effectively. 4. is prepared for and participates in class activities. 5. is improving in this class. Student needs to: 6. improve behavior and/or attitude. 7. improve low test/quiz grades. 8. improve homework grades. 9. follow instructions. 10. complete assignments. 11. improve use of class time. 12. improve attendance. Absences are excessive. 13. improve effort. Achievement is below apparent ability. 14. make up missed tests or other work. 15. stay after school for help. 16. parent conference requested by teacher. Conferences If a conference is requested with the parents, the teacher requesting the conference should mark comment code 16 on the grade reporting sheet. The parent is then to call the school s counseling office to arrange a mutually convenient time and place for the conference. Parents may arrange conferences at their request by contacting the school s counseling office. 20

21 SEMESTER GRADE CALCULATION For all high school students, credits and grades are awarded on a semester basis with the exception of those courses where a state End-of-Course (EOC) exam is required. Semester grades are calculated using the points shown in the table below. Earned grades are translated to quality points (not GPA) as indicated in the table below. The table also provides the range of quality points needed to earn a semester grade: Letter Grade Quality Quarter 2X Exam 1X Semester Points (count twice) (count once) A B C D F FULL YEAR GRADE CALCULATION (Used only if one semester final grade is F) Florida statute requires that a student enrolled in a full-year course shall receive onehalf credit if the student successfully completes either the first half or the second half of a full-year course but fails to successfully complete the other half of the course and the averaging of the grades obtained in each half would not result in a passing grade. A student enrolled in a full-year course shall receive a full credit if the student successfully completes either the first half or the second half of a full-year course but fails to successfully complete the other half of the course and the averaging of the grades obtained in each half would result in a passing grade, provided that such additional requirements specified in district school board policies, such as class attendance, homework, participation, and other indicators of performance, shall be successfully completed by the student. (F.S ) CCPS will combine two semesters to earn a passing grade only if the final grade for one of the semesters is an F. o If one of the final grades for the semester is F, the total quality points earned for the year must be at least ten (10) to earn a passing grade for the year. o At least one quality point must be earned in each semester. o If one of the final grades for the semester is F, and the two semesters are combined, the following scale will be used to determine the grade for the year: 21

22 A B C D F points points points points 0-9 points Averaging a CCPS course with a half credit from another school district or FLVS State statute requires that Collier County Public Schools averages two semesters if one semester is an F to earn a passing grade for the full credit. Statute does not say that both semesters have to be earned at the same school. Therefore, it is appropriate to average a CCPS grade with a grade from another Florida school, another school outside of Florida, Florida Virtual School, or other accredited institution. PROCEDURE Once the semester 1 and 2 grades are combined to equal a full credit, please add to the academic history as a term 3 course. Show a full credit attempted, earned, and final grade. Delete the original semester 1 and semester 2 grades from the academic history. End-of-Course (EOC) Assessments Students in the following courses and cohorts will have course grades calculated as detailed below. Algebra I 2013 cohort Must pass the EOC to receive a high school diploma EOC is calculated as 10% of final year-long course grade 2014 cohort and beyond (including current middle school students) Must pass the EOC to receive a high school diploma EOC is calculated as 30% of final year-long course grade Algebra IA & Algebra IB 2015 cohort and beyond Must pass the EOC to receive a high school diploma EOC is calculated as 30% of final year-long course grade Algebra IA final grade calculation (subject area = MA) o Quarter 1 40% o Quarter 2 40% o Final Exam 20% Algebra IB final grade calculation (subject area = A1) o Quarter 1 35% o Quarter 2 35% o Final Exam 30% 22

23 Algebra II 2013 cohort EOC is calculated as 10% of final year-long course grade 2014 cohort and beyond (including current middle school students) EOC is calculated as 30% of final year-long course grade Biology I* 2013 cohort Must take the Biology I EOC EOC is calculated as 10% of final year-long course grade 2014 cohort and beyond Must take the Biology I EOC EOC is calculated as 30% of final year-long course grade *Students enrolled in AP or AICE Biology may take the Biology EOC to earn scholars designation; The Biology EOC will not factor into grading for these courses. Geometry 2013 cohort Must take the Geometry EOC EOC is calculated as 10% of final year-long course grade 2014 cohort and beyond Must take the Geometry EOC EOC is calculated as 30% of final year-long course grade US History 2013 cohort Must take the US History EOC EOC is calculated as 30% of final year-long course grade 2014 cohort and beyond Must take the US History EOC EOC is calculated as 30% of final year-long course grade *Students enrolled in AP, AICE, or Dual Enrollment US History may take the US History EOC to earn scholars designation; The US History EOC will not factor into grading for these courses. 23

24 Transfer Students and State EOC Exams If a transfer student s transcript shows a final course grade and credit in Algebra I, Geometry, Biology I or U.S. History, the transferring final grade and credit must be honored without the student taking the requisite state EOC exam and without the results constituting 30 percent of the student s final course grade. (SB 7031) Exam Grade Reporting for Teachers EOC Courses All state End-of-Course (EOC) exam results will be automatically loaded to the grade reporting system by the District office and will not appear in the electronic grade book. For students taking the EOC, teachers will not enter a grade in the final exam category. Any grades for culminating teacher-made projects or assessments will be entered manually as an assignment by the teacher for inclusion in fourth quarter grades. Non-EOC Courses A District local assessment or teacher-created assessment or project will need to be manually entered in the electronic grade book. Re-Taking of a state End-of-Course (EOC) exam for Grade Improvement State and District grade forgiveness policies allow for high school students to replace final grades of D or F. A student retaking the course for grade forgiveness purposes will retake the state EOC exam; the higher of the two scores will be used for grade calculation. If a student received a final grade of D or F in a course requiring a state EOC exam the student could re-take the state EOC exam to have the final grade calculated. District Local Assessments District local assessments, administered in applicable courses, during quarter I will account for 5% of the respective quarter. District local assessments, administered in applicable courses, during quarter II and IV will account for the mid-term and final exam, respectively. HIGH SCHOOL GRADING CALCULATIONS 10% EOC Calculation 30% EOC Calculation GP1 GP2 Mid-term GP3 GP4 Final 20% 20% 10% 20% 20% 10% 15% 15% 10% 15% 15% 30% Semester Course GP1/3 GP 2/4 Mid-term/Final 40% 40% 20% 24

25 Each semester grade and the EOC score will be converted to a 0 4 point scale and a final grade computed. A 4 B 3 C 2 D 1 F 0 Semester 1 information will be used only to calculate a final, year-long grade and WILL NOT be reported. Report cards will show the following grades for students in the identified Grade 9 cohort taking the courses identified above: Quarter 1, Quarter 2, midterm exam, Quarter 3, Quarter 4, EOC/final exam, and final grade. The report card will only report one final grade, regardless of the school year the student takes the course. 25

26 High School Homework General Guidelines The purpose of this document is to provide guidelines to support the use of homework that: is meaningful and purposeful; takes a reasonable amount of time to complete; can be completed independently; receives timely feedback from the teacher; and recognizes that many different types of formative activities might fall under the homework category. Other types of activities may include assignments started in class, daily assignments, parts of longer term projects, daily quizzes, etc. These guidelines apply to all of them. Homework should not include toxic homework practices. Some examples are: large volumes of repetitive problems; introducing new concepts with a high risk of failure; excessive workload. Given that homework represents a significant opportunity to develop key academic skills and abilities, teachers shall: know and understand the CCPS homework guidelines and expectations, including the board-approved Homework Policy and Administrative Procedure (2330); include relevant information about their expectations and grading procedures in the class syllabus; provide meaningful and appropriately challenging assignments which offer students an opportunity to engage in critical academic practice; define clearly the purpose for the assignment, including the standards and academic skills and/or abilities being addressed; recognize that students have differing access to technology, communications tools, and supplies which could limit their ability to successfully complete assignments; give feedback in a timely manner; and communicate promptly with students and their parents, when students are falling behind in homework completion. Given that homework represents a significant opportunity to develop key academic skills and abilities, students shall: know and understand the homework guidelines and expectations outlined on the syllabus; check the class syllabus, online learning repository, electronic grade book, or assignment board to be aware of upcoming assignments and make notes about directions for homework; 26

27 talk with the teacher in advance if an absence is anticipated and plan appropriately to complete assignments in a timely fashion; set aside the appropriate amount of time nightly to complete assignments, manage time for long term assignments, and utilize effective organizational skills; complete assignments independently unless otherwise noted, and submit completed assignments on time which reflect careful attention to detail and quality of work; and talk with parents and teachers if they are having difficulty with homework or if homework is taking excessive time to complete. Given that homework represents a significant opportunity to develop key academic skills and abilities, parents shall: know and understand the homework guidelines and expectations in the course syllabus; reinforce the importance of homework to their student by providing encouragement to complete all assignments; encourage their student to talk with the teacher in advance if an absence is anticipated and help them plan appropriately to complete assignments in a timely fashion; provide a safe, quiet environment and an appropriate amount of time for their student to complete homework; assist their student as needed, without completing the work for the student, and encourage them to ask for additional assistance, if needed; and contact the teacher/school if their student continues experiencing difficulties with homework assignments. Given that homework represents a significant opportunity to develop key academic skills and abilities, administrators shall: know and understand the CCPS homework guidelines and expectations, including the board-approved Homework Policy and Administrative Procedure (2330); communicate the guidelines and their purpose to all stakeholders in the school community; monitor, to ensure that the homework guidelines are implemented school-wide; and support teachers in the effective implementation of the homework guidelines. 27

28 High School Homework Teacher Guidelines The purpose of this document is to provide guidelines to support the use of homework that: is meaningful and purposeful; takes a reasonable amount of time to complete; can be completed independently; and receives timely feedback from the teacher. It is recognized that many different types of formative activities might fall under the homework category. Other types of activities may include assignments started in class, daily assignments, parts of longer term projects, and/or daily quizzes. These guidelines apply to all of them. Q1: How much homework is appropriate? Research supports that students should be able to complete homework in a time frame which is reasonable and not excessive. This will vary with grade level and/or the level of the subject matter. For regular and honors high school courses, a teacher should plan for no more than 20 minutes of homework per night. For all courses, the depth and difficulty of the assignments will match the rigor of the course. Therefore, advanced courses may have more in-depth, complex assignments. This does not necessarily translate into more problems or longer completion times. Students enrolled in music/band classes may have practice assignments which would cause the total homework time to exceed the recommended averages. Q2: What constitutes homework? Teachers should design quality homework tasks that are connected to classroom learning. Practice Students should be able to do the work independently because the skill has already been taught and modeled in the classroom. Preparation This may include reading the next chapter, looking up new vocabulary words for the next book/chapter/unit of study. These assignments introduce new concepts that will then be discussed and expanded on in class. Extension and Integration Homework - This encourages higher order thinking as students apply established skills to new situations. These assignments, that include a review of materials from previous assignments along with a preview of new concepts and procedures, better facilitate student learning. This may include long-term projects which are graded separately from homework. 28

29 Review/ study homework Be sure to include studying and reviewing as part of the allotted homework time. Help students to study more effectively with study guides and practices for review before the test/ quiz. Q3: Should homework require assistance from home? In general, students should be able to complete homework assignments without assistance. Q4: Should teachers accept late homework? The district policy is to give students one day to turn in work late for every day of absence. In most situations, the consequence for not completing the work should be to complete the work. Late work should be accepted within reason; however, in some instances, this may not be possible. Teachers may assign a reduced point value for work which is returned late. Late policies should be clearly outlined in the syllabus and explained to students. Policies can be set by individual teachers, teams, or grade levels at each school. Teachers should plan and assign homework ahead of time as often as possible. If an assignment is meaningful and necessary in order for a student to achieve mastery, then the important thing is that the work gets done, even if it is late. Q5: Do teachers have to give homework? No. Homework is not mandatory; however, research shows that as students get older, the benefits of homework increase. Therefore, it is recommended that high school teachers make homework a regular and valuable part of their course. Q6: How much should homework count in a student s grade? The recommended range for the weight of homework in a student s grade is 10% to 20%. Q7: Is there a minimum number of homework assignments necessary? Teachers should plan the weight they assign to homework. A homework category that is worth 10%-20% of the grade should include several assignments. Q8: Who will monitor? Principals and Assistant Principals of Curriculum should monitor teachers homework practices as necessary. 29

30 Q9: What are the consequences if homework is not complete? If students do not complete homework, they may not receive credit, or may receive reduced credit for the work they complete. However, teachers and schools should make every effort possible to collect missing assignments. Q10: Are zeros permitted for homework? It is a school-based decision as to whether teachers should assign a zero to work that has been done incorrectly. A distinction should be made between work done incorrectly and missing work. Teachers have the option of entering an M in the electronic grade book for missing work which is calculated as a zero in the total grade. Q11: What role does feedback play? If an assignment is important enough to be assigned, it is important enough to review with the student and/or class. Appropriate feedback may include: grades with comments, reviews, reflections, and/or discussions (may include directed peer-review). Q12: Can I give long-term projects as homework? Long-term projects do have a role in the homework time allotted for each class. Grading procedures should be clearly outlined in the course syllabus. Often, at the discretion of the teacher, long-term assignments are not graded as homework. Projects should have established check-points along the way. 30